News Jimmy Page, Brian May and Tony Iommi attend launch of new ‘Gibson Garage’ in London
On February 22nd, crowds gathered in London for the opening of the new Gibson Garage with rock legends Jimmy Page, Brian May and Tony Iommi among those in attendance.
The Gibson Garage in London marks the first-ever Gibson flagship store outside of the United States. Led Zeppelin’s ‘Whole Lotta Love,’ played in the background as Page cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the site.
Gueikian explained his vision for the Garage, stating he wants to put user experience before sales. The CEO noted that more people are starting to play the guitar, and he wants to reignite the guitar shop of old, where models are made, and people of all capabilities can experiment with instruments.
He also welcomed Led Zeppelin’s Page to the store, who praised Gueikian’s enthusiasm, describing him as “a visionary.” Page also reflected on the daunting experience of buying a guitar for the first time, stating, “So many people playing guitars… there’s such a spirit and energy in there.”
Gibson alumni Black Sabbath’s Iommi and Queen’s May were also at the unveiling, where they watched an impromptu performance by James Bay in the shop’s underground venue. Bay’s performance marks the first of many in this store which plans to become a central hub for live music in London.
The opening of the Gibson Garage ushers in a new era for musicians in London. Regardless of whether they are veterans, like Page, May and Iommi, or are yet to string two chords together, guitarists now have a space that will allow them to follow in the footsteps of the people who opened it.
